Biden Highlights Historic Opportunity and Risk in Post-Assad Syria

President Joe Biden addressed the recent ousting of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria, calling it a significant moment filled with both risk and historic opportunity. Speaking from the White House, Biden outlined a comprehensive plan for U.S. support to the region amidst ongoing instability.

In his first substantial remarks since the Assad regime's fall due to a swift insurgent assault, Biden noted that the U.S. has conducted numerous airstrikes in Syria, reaffirming its commitment to preventing the resurgence of ISIS. "This is a moment of historic opportunity for the long-suffering people of Syria to build a better future for their proud country," Biden stated. However, he also acknowledged the risks and uncertainties that lie ahead.

The president pledged to support Syria's neighboring countries as the region transitions, vowing to protect U.S. personnel engaged in the ongoing mission against ISIS. Biden communicated plans to consult with regional leaders and deploy U.S. officials to facilitate coordination and support efforts.

Emphasizing the need to prevent ISIS from re-establishing its stronghold in Syria, Biden expressed his resolve, stating, "We will not let that happen." He outlined the importance of securing detention facilities holding ISIS fighters and executing precise strikes against the group.

U.S. Central Command confirmed that U.S. forces carried out dozens of airstrikes targeting more than 75 ISIS sites using advanced military assets, including B-52 bombers and F-15 fighter jets. "There should be no doubt that we will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria," stated General Erik Kurilla, commander of CENTCOM.

Biden's comments come at a crucial time, with President-elect Donald Trump advocating for a hands-off approach to the conflict. Trump highlighted the Assad regime's downfall as an illustration of the weakened influence of Russia and Iran, suggesting the U.S. reassess its involvement.

With Assad having fled to Moscow, where he is reportedly seeking asylum, Biden emphasized the importance of engaging with a range of Syrian groups as the nation navigates the transition toward a sovereign government. Biden affirmed, "This process will be determined by the Syrian people themselves. The United States will do whatever we can to support them, including through humanitarian relief."

A senior administration official echoed this, indicating that the U.S. would engage with various Syrian opposition and ground groups. However, Biden cautioned that the U.S. would monitor the actions of rebel groups closely, especially Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which has been designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S.

Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, the head of HTS, declared victory for the opposition, suggesting the intention to form a government representing the people. But Biden warned that the U.S. would assess their actions alongside their statements as the situation evolves.

Biden also highlighted the administration's focus on the remnants of chemical weapons in Syria, labeling it a top priority, and expressing that they do not foresee deploying U.S. troops to address the issue. Rebels have called for international assistance in disposing of the weapons, for which the Syrian government has been implicated in several attacks during the civil war.

Moreover, Biden reiterated the U.S. commitment to bringing home freelance journalist Austin Tice, who has been missing in Syria since 2012. "We believe he's alive," Biden confirmed, expressing determination to identify Tice's whereabouts. The Tice family remains hopeful for his return, and the FBI continues to offer a reward for information leading to his safe recovery.

As the U.S. navigates this pivotal time in Syria's future, the nation remains committed to supporting the Syrian people while maintaining strong vigilance against re-emerging threats from extremist groups like ISIS.

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